Michigan HOSA Spotlight: Two Volunteers, 25 Years of Helping Students See a Future in Healthcare
Volunteering as a Michigan HOSA competitive event judge offers a chance to see future healthcare professionals put their knowledge and skills into practice. For Arlene and Robert Mele, that opportunity has become a commitment spanning 25 years each.
Arlene is a retired schoolteacher with more than 33 years of educational experience. Robert, a physical therapist for nearly 50 years, is a full-time faculty member in Macomb Community College’s Physical Therapist Assistant program. Together, they bring decades of experience in education and healthcare to the students they meet.
Their involvement began in 2001, when Macomb Community College encouraged them to volunteer. Both were drawn to the way HOSA gives students opportunities to explore healthcare careers, build their skills, and demonstrate what they’ve learned through competition.
“We keep coming back because of the students, their enthusiasm, their drive, and their sincere interest in healthcare,” Robert said. “Seeing that commitment gives me confidence in the next generation of healthcare professionals and their ability to take on the challenges ahead.”
When asked to choose a memorable judging moment, the Meles found it difficult to name just one. Instead, they pointed to how much they learn each year, a benefit they encourage new judges to embrace.
“Be open-minded to the youth of today. Learn from them as they learn from you,” they shared. “Every year, we leave HOSA conferences having learned something new.”
They also share their judging experiences with colleagues, hoping others will join them. Their message to anyone considering volunteering is a simple “Do it.”
Michigan HOSA, powered by Michigan Health Council, is a student organization that helps middle school, high school, and postsecondary students interested in healthcare develop their knowledge, skills, and leadership abilities. Through competitive events and other experiences, members explore career interests and prepare for their futures in healthcare.
Michigan HOSA is in need of volunteers for Regional Conferences across Michigan and for the State Leadership Conference, held each spring in the Traverse City area; no experience is required. Learn more and sign up to volunteer at michiganhosa.org/judge.
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